John sighed.
``If William agrees, we should insist on a public debate,'' he said at length.

``There is more to the conspiracy.
Bern demands that the Lord's Supper be administered here as it used to be, with unleavened bread.
Furthermore, Bern decrees that we must do as we are ordered by the Council, preach only the word of God and stop meddling in politics!''

``It was always the spirit with Christ; matters such as leavened or unleavened bread are inconsequential.
Geneva must remain a sovereign state.
We will not yield to the demands of Bern!''

The firelight played over Eli's flowing white locks and rugged features.
``Monsieur Favre indicated that if I would co-operate, after you and William are banished, following the debate, I will be given a place of influence.''

``What was your reply to that?''

``That I would rather be banished with two such Christians than be made the Chief Syndic!''

The following morning, as John entered the Place Molard on his way to visit a sick refugee, he had a premonition of danger.
Then suddenly a group of men and dogs circled him.
He wanted to run, but he knew that if he did, he would be lost.
He stood very still, his heart thumping wildly.
On the outskirts of the rabble the Camaret brothers and Gaspard Favre shook their fists.

``Are you going to comply with the demands of Bern?''
the chinless Jake called.